Jody Friend, SHRM-SCP,
President & CEO

Jody Friend 

Jody is a seasoned Human Resources Executive with over 30 years of experience helping organizations build and refine their HR infrastructure. Her expertise lies in crafting practical, scalable solutions rooted in technology, compliance, and people-centered strategies. As the founder of JLM, she brings a passion for supporting early-stage ventures and nonprofit organizations, guiding them in establishing strong HR foundations that support long-term success. Her approach is both strategic and hands-on, making her a trusted partner to clients navigating complex HR challenges.

Before launching JLM, Jody held a series of corporate HR leadership roles across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, information technology, telecommunications, and professional services. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in Catonsville, MD, and holds the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) designation. An active leader in the HR community, Jody is a proud member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and HR Alliance DC. Her service to HR Alliance DC includes a one-year term as President and five years on the board; she continues to support the organization today as a member of its Programs Committee.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jody is deeply committed to her family and her community. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children—Loren, Latia, and Jabari—as well as her grandson Corey and granddaughter Naomi. She's also an avid reader and music lover. A dedicated mentor, Jody takes great pride in guiding up-and-coming HR professionals, sharing her knowledge and encouraging the next generation of leaders to embrace the dynamic and impactful world of human resources.

JLM Team